Ratu Meli pays tribute to late father, Tui Namuka Ratu Tevita Niumataiwalu

Ratu Meli Caniogo has paid an emotional tribute to his late father, Tui Namuka Ratu Tevita Navurelevu Niumataiwalu, describing him as a humble, visionary leader who always stood for his people.

Ratu Tevita, 68, passed away on Monday at Labasa Hospital.

He will be laid to rest next Thursday in his village of Visoqo, Namuka District, Macuata.

“We, the three siblings, are deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden departure of our father to heaven,” Ratu Meli said.

He thanked the people of Namuka for their support during his father’s leadership.

“My father was a down-to-earth leader who led by example, not only in Namuka but also in Macuata Province and in the Government of Fiji,” he said.

“He was there for anyone. He never gave excuses, he never said no, and he cared for all — especially his people of Namuka.”

Ratu Meli also thanked his mother for standing by their father until his final days.

“Dad will remain our hero, a man who honoured his words and a visionary leader who always stood for his people,” he said.

The late chief was a former Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) member before joining the People’s Alliance.